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IN mid-May, Singapore-based Subaru distributor Motor Image, which
sells the brand in eight Asian countries, launched the new
third-generation Forester in the city-state. On July 2, this award
winning “crossover sport-utility vehicle,” as Subaru calls it,
made its Philippine debut as Motor Image Pilipinas (MIP) unveiled it
to the local market.
Fresh from a complete redesign, MIP said the new
Forester boasts of a bolder and sleeker design while retaining all
the features that have allowed its predecessors to garner
international acclaim. Improvements in design and comfort have
resulted in a far more luxurious drive while exacting demands on
safety, quality and capability have made the new Forester the
epitome of form and function, MIP said in a statement.
Since the first Forester was introduced in
February 1997, the vehicle has earned accolades as a crossover SUV
that combines passenger car comfort and safety with enhanced
adaptability and functionality. The completely redesigned Forester,
Subaru said, now boasts of increased space and comfort.
“When Subaru launched the Forester 11 years
ago, it redefined the industry,” said Motor Image Group Chief
Executive Glenn Tan. “Here was a vehicle that defied all labels
and definition, enhancing the comfort and safety of cars with
greater function and capability. It has since become an icon of
safety, dependability and versatility,” he said.
Subaru said the new Forester discarded its
predecessors’ boxy looks and has benefited from a stylish redesign
that strikes a balance between practicality and contemporary
elegance. Streamlined and defined lines along its flanks run from
the headlights to the taillights which, when combined with boxed
front fenders and rear quarter panels, give the vehicle a sculpted
profile. Inside the vehicle, decorative brushed aluminium-like
insets flow from the center panel of the dashboard to the door trim,
creating a sense of airiness to the interior, Subaru said.
Two models of the new Forester are available in
the Philippines: the 2.0X and the 2.5XT. Both models are offered
exclusively with four-speed automatic transmissions that feature
Subaru’s SPORTSHIFT. The 2.0X is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC boxer
engine while the 2.5XT is propelled by a 2.5-liter turbo-charged
DOHC boxer engine. Like any Subaru, the new Forester models are
equipped with Subaru’s trademark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
system.
The new Forester sits on an all-new platform
that has a wheel-base that’s 90 millimeters longer and is fitted
with enhanced double wish-bone rear suspension. Compared with the
previous model, the latest Forester is taller (by 110mm) and wider
(by 45mm). The increases in dimensions resulted in a roomier
interior without substantially enlarging the vehicle’s body.
In terms of safety features, Subaru said the new
Forester models have three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and
load limiters in the front and rear passenger seats; fitted SRS
frontal, side and curtain airbags; active headrests for driver and
passengers; ABS with EBD; and a Brake Assist System.
There are nine colors offered for the vehicle:
Dark Gray Metallic, Obsidian Black Pearl, Spark Silver Metallic, New
Port Blue, Topaz Gold Metallic, Steel Silver Metallic, Satin White,
Camellia Red Pearl and Sage Green Metallic.
“The new Forester builds on the many features
that made Foresters such a worldwide hit. It boasts of an
irresistible charm,” Tan said.
“How to improve upon an icon? Come try the all
new Forester and find out,” he added.
The new Forester 2.0X sells for P1.288 million
while the 2.5XT is priced at P1.698 million.
-- Motoring Times
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